Tuesday, November 5, 2019

DISCUSSION ON AGEISM AND UNEMPLOYMENT

50+ Job Seekers Regional Networking Meeting 

Yesterday, I had the opportunity to attend a meeting at Essex North Shore Agricultural Technical School with a number or Council on Aging Directors, and other people, to discuss the challenges confronting those over 50 years of age seeking employment.

The Massachusetts workforce is aging. In fact, demographically we have an older population than the rest of the nation and this has an impact on workers, our economy, communities and public policy. Recently, the North Andover COA was awarded a grant funded and supported by the Massachusetts Association of Councils on Aging to help those over 50 who are looking for a new job or new career direction.

People over 65 were 14 percent of the Massachusetts population in 2010. In 2030, they will be 21 percent of the population. Councils on Aging are working together to support efforts to connect people with valuable resources.

All 50+Job Seekers Regional Networking Meeting meetings are open to anyone who resident of the state who is over 49 years old. Participants are given a regularly scheduled, professional forum for networking with peers in a safe and comfortable environment. Each meeting is facilitated by a certified career and includes a presentation-workshop on topics relevant to career transitions and job searches.

Guest Speakers included - Susan Drevitch Kelly, a consultant from the Massachusetts Councils on Aging and leads the 50+ Job Seekers Regional Networking Group Program throughout the state. Sheila Taylor, COA Director of Ipswich, on this program in her community, how the program developed, the grant they applied for, and the success they have had with it. Cahla Ahlstrom, Assistant to Irene O’Brien of North Andover, on developing this program and what they hope to accomplish.

With Mary Ann Nay my Community Outreach Specialist.